Rome at a Slower Pace: Sustainable Travel in the Eternal City

By Priscilla Corti, Context Expert in Rome

Rome is a city that invites lingering. From piazza-hopping to long, leisurely meals, the best way to experience the Eternal City is to slow down. Beyond enhancing your trip, a slower approach to travel can also make it more sustainable. Here’s how to embrace a greener way to explore Rome.

Walk, Walk, Walk

"Rome’s historic center is best explored on foot. Not only does walking reduce emissions, but it also allows you to truly soak in the city’s energy, discover hidden corners, and stumble upon unexpected wonders. From the Pantheon to Trastevere, a well-planned walking route can replace multiple car rides."

Use Public Transportation Over Private Cars

"If you need to cover more ground, opt for Rome’s buses, trams, and metro. The city’s public transport system is extensive, and by choosing it, you help reduce congestion and pollution."

Refill, Don’t Repurchase

"Rome is home to thousands of public fountains—many of which date back to ancient times! These nasoni (big noses) provide fresh, clean drinking water, so there’s no need to buy plastic bottles. Bringing a reusable water bottle not only helps reduce waste but also connects you to a Roman tradition dating back centuries."

Support Local Businesses

"Sustainability isn’t just about the environment; it’s also about communities. Avoid tourist-trap restaurants and chain stores and instead seek out local trattorias, artisans, and markets. Whether it’s a handmade leather journal or a plate of homemade cacio e pepe, your choices help sustain Rome’s cultural heritage."

(You can find expert recommendations to restaurants around the city here.)

Visit Rome with Context

Rome isn’t just a city to see—it’s a city to experience. By slowing down, choosing public transport, and embracing sustainable travel habits, you can make a meaningful impact while enjoying a deeper connection to the Eternal City. As a B Corp, Context Travel is committed to responsible tourism, ensuring that every tour we offer prioritizes local engagement, environmental mindfulness, and authentic storytelling. Travel with us in Rome and be part of a movement that values both the past and the future of this iconic and historical city.

About Priscilla: Priscilla is a native Roman, born and raised in the city and has always been passionate about art and history. She has a degree plus 3 years of post graduate study in Archaeology from the Università La Sapienza in Rome. As an archaeologist, her field of expertise is the study and the categorization of the pottery found on archaeological excavation sites. She has taken part in several archaeological excavations in Rome, mostly on the slopes of the Palatine hill.

Over the years after she completed her academic studies, she found herself eager to learn more and more about Rome in all its history and art. That is one of the reasons why in the early 2000’s she became a licensed tour guide and for more than 15 years has enjoyed sharing her interest and passion for this wonderful city with visitors.